Support coordinators play a crucial role in helping individuals overcome challenges and access the support tHow to Become a Support Coordinator

If interested in learning how to become a support coordinator or interested in upskilling we offer a 2 day support coordinator training package here. We will be adding more complex needs support options in our disability support services training soon.

Support coordinators play a crucial role in empowering individuals with disabilities to access the right supports and live fulfilling lives. If you’re passionate about helping people achieve their goals and want to make a difference in the disability sector, becoming an NDIS support coordinator could be the career path for you. Many Local Area Coordinators move into support coordination. In this guide, we’ll explore how to become a support coordinator, the qualifications and skills required, and how to thrive in this rewarding profession.

If you’re looking to get started or upskill, we offer a 2-day support coordinator training package to equip you with the knowledge and tools you need.

What is a Support Coordinator?

A support coordinator works with NDIS participants to help them make the most of their NDIS plans by connecting them with appropriate service providers, managing service agreements, and overcoming barriers. Depending on their specific needs, participants may access different levels of support coordination, which include:

Support Connection: Short-term assistance to understand and implement the NDIS plan.
Coordination of Supports: Ongoing help to connect participants with providers and services that align with their goals.
Specialist Support Coordinator: Intensive support for participants with complex needs, provided by professionals with extensive experience.

Steps to Become an NDIS Support Coordinator

Step 1: Build Your Educational Foundation

To start your journey, you’ll need a strong educational foundation:

Complete Year 10 or Year 12: While Year 10 is the minimum requirement, completing Year 12 can better prepare you for further studies and employment.
Develop Basic Literacy Skills: Support coordinators need to read and interpret service agreements and NDIS (National Disability Insurance Agency) plans accurately.

Step 2: Gain Relevant Qualifications

Unlike some roles in the disability support services field, becoming a support coordinator doesn’t require formal qualifications. However, completing training or obtaining a qualification in Community Services, Disability Services, or a related field can enhance your track record and employability.

Here are some pathways:

Vocational Courses: Certificates III and IV in fields like Individual Support, Disability Services, or Community Services.
Diploma Programs: Diplomas in Community Services, Mental Health, or Counselling are ideal for addressing complex barriers and supporting participants’ specific goals.
Bachelor’s Degrees: Pursue degrees in Social Work, Occupational Therapy, or Allied Health to gain a deeper understanding of NDIS services and capacity-building supports.

Step 3: Meet Legal Requirements

To work as an NDIS support coordinator, you’ll need to obtain the following:

National Police Certificate: To ensure suitability for working in sensitive roles.
Working with Children Check: Required if you’ll be working with children as part of your role.
NDIS Worker Screening Check: A mandatory clearance to work in the disability sector, confirming your ability to deliver best-practice services.

What Does a Support Coordinator Do?

As a support coordinator, you’ll support individuals with specific needs by helping them navigate the NDIS and coordinating their mix of supports. Your role may include:

Helping participants identify appropriate service providers for their living arrangements, community participation, and Supported Independent Living options.
Monitoring plan budgets, support-budgets and support coordination funding to ensure effective use of funding.
Addressing barriers and ensuring participants achieve their specific goals.
Liaising with family members, local community organisations, and multidisciplinary teams to provide holistic support.
Preparing reports for NDIS reviews to showcase participants’ progress.

Crucial Skills for Success

To excel in NDIS Support Coordination, you’ll need a combination of interpersonal and organisational skills, including:

Empathy and Interpersonal Skills: Build trust with participants and their support network, ensuring they feel supported and understood.
Communication Skills: Facilitate clear communication between participants, families, and providers to ensure smooth service delivery tasks.
Organisational Prowess: Manage service bookings, monitor plan funding, and ensure all participants receive the right services.
Problem-Solving: Address complex needs and find innovative solutions to improve the support effectiveness for participants.

Further Training and Upskilling

For those looking to gain or refine their skills, our 2-day support coordinator training package offers comprehensive insights into the National Disability Insurance Scheme, NDIS legislation, and practical skills to manage NDIS Plan Management effectively.

We’ll soon expand our training to include advanced topics, such as psychosocial recovery coaching, mental health, and managing participants with intellectual disabilities.

Why Choose a Career in Support Coordination?

Australia’s disability sector is growing rapidly, driven by increased funding for the NDIS and demand for professional services. Becoming a support coordinator offers:

Job Security: The NDIS has created thousands of opportunities for professionals in the disability services space.
Community Impact: Make a tangible difference in the lives of individuals with disabilities and their support people.
Career Growth: Develop transferable skills to pursue roles in plan management, local area coordination, or even government services.

Where Can You Work?

Support coordinators can work for various organisations across Australia, including:

Registered NDIS providers in cities like Brisbane, the Gold Coast, and Central Coast.
Community-based organisations offering short-term accommodation and community support services.
Allied Health practices and larger agencies specialising in Supported Independent Living.

Making an Informed Career Choice

The NDIS landscape is vast and complex, but with the right skills and training, you can help participants overcome barriers, address complex barriers, monitor plan budgets and achieve independence. Whether you’re new to the industry or an experienced professional looking to transition, support coordination offers long-term career prospects with the opportunity to work closely with participants and their local community.

If you’re ready to start your journey, contact us today for training and guidance on becoming a successful NDIS support coordinator.

Contact Us

Interested in our training programs, support plans or have questions about your current support coordinator career? Our phone number is on the contact page and our offices are located in New South Wales. We’re here to help you find the best support and resources for your career aspirations.

How to Become a Support Coordinator